During
the analysis of skeletal material from Qumran (Collectio Kurth) a wide range
of physical data was collected and analysed by an interdisciplinary team of
scholars. Although the random character of sampling only allows qualitative
conclusions, these data nevertheless lead to important conclusions, which should
turn out to be incontrovertible.
Especially noteworthy are:
1. During the period of consideration, the vicinity of Qumran was densely covered
with
vegetation.
2. At the same time, Wadi Qumran ran water all year round which -despite its
salinity and
bitterness- was still suitable for human and animal consumption.
3. The water was used for irrigated agriculture (date palm plantations).
4. The cemeteries were situated within these plantations, thereby taking on
their
structure/layout.
5. The cemeteries have produced remains of males, females and children of all
ages. This
indicates the presence of usual family structures at Qumran.
6. Social stratification within the Qumran population can be taken for granted,
too.
7. Different patterns in dental use and abrasion suggest different ways of preparing
staple
foods.
8. Typologically, the individuals that could be analysed belong to a local,
Jordan valley based
population group and show less affinities to the region around Jerusalem, and
certainly
none to the coastal area.